Consumers in the U.S. are entitled to assume that products sold are properly made and safe for use. Unfortunately, some products are defective and dangerous. Defective products can encompass anything from automobiles to household items to toys.

Poor design, inadequate instructions or warnings and negligent manufacturing may contribute to the lacking safety standards, posing risks for consumers using defective products.

Sometimes defective products simply do not operate the way they are supposed to. If a product simply malfunctions without causing harm, you might have a warranty claim against the manufacturer or seller. Consumers with bad products should quickly notify manufacturers and retailers regarding deficiencies and contact an attorney to aid the process of asserting a claim.

Though some bad products malfunction without posing harm, some defective goods can severely injure or kill users and those nearby or cause significant damage to property. In situations of damage, injury and death, the manufacturer responsible for making the defective product may be responsible for compensating those injured or paying for property damage. Determining whether a product was defective and caused injury can require a detailed, scientific investigation.

If you believe you or someone you know has been injured by a defective product, it is important to act quickly. It is very important to keep the defective product, evidence of how it malfunctioned, and any paperwork and materials that go with it. Injured consumers should contact an experienced product liability attorney as quickly as possible.